IvanLouw

Speaker Profile

Ivan was hijacked in Pretoria while on a business trip. Next to a deserted road on the outskirts of Pretoria, two of the hijacker's accomplices met up with them. Ivan was forced to remove his clothing, his hands tied behind his back and a noose placed around his neck, which was used to choke him whenever he did not coincide with their orders. Two of the men went on to rape Ivan. He was then pulled from the vehicle, and lost consciousness due to the fuel that they poured over him. Once Ivan regained consciousness, he had to drive, with his hands still tied, to the nearest hospital. So began a life-altering journey.

The aftermath of such a traumatic event only struck Ivan three months after the rape. He lost his up-and-coming company, and the ever present thought of contracting HIV stopped him from making any future plans. It was only once Ivan found himself contemplating suicide that he realised he was still allowing the rapists to have control over him.

'It's a pity that you first need to endure a life threatening experience before realising how much control you really have over your life' Ivan said on a recent television show he appeared on. Ivan has since adopted a new lifestyle, discovering the ability each of us has to realise our dreams. Ivan has appeared in numerous magazines, radio and television programs because of his courage, determination and ability to not only talk about the horrific night, but to share with others the means by which he managed to turn from suicidal wreck to a man content with life. His presentations are often met with standing ovations as his audience is taken on a roller coaster ride filled with a mix of emotion and humour.